Bill Waters is the 6-year-old son of Ruth Waters, a white female, and Josh Waters, an African-American male. The parents are divorcing and both want custody of the child. Mr. Waters argued that in a society that is as race-conscious as America, it is in the best interest of the child to be placed in the home of the parent whose race he will be identified with. The child, Bill, appeared to have the characteristics of an African-American. All parties agreed an interracial child might suffer internal conflicts as the result of mixed identity. He added that blacks are more accepting of people of mixed ancestry. Mr. Waters believed a black family was necessary to develop a black identity. Mrs. Waters stated that race should be a low priority when deciding the custody of a child. She believed the ability to provide a loving and caring home should be the determining factor in establishing custody. Both of the parents are college-educated and could provide a stable home for Bill.
*You are the judge, which parent obtains custody of Bill? Write up your decision and reasons in a 1-2 page essay.
Related questions you could look at:
*Should the child have a say in the custody battle?
*What if both parents were honest, decent, and hardworking people but one made considerably more money than the other? Would this influence your decision?
